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Tag: festivals

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Kennebunk Savings to partner with American Independence Museum

In 2019, the American Independence Museum is working with a number of local businesses to create free or reduced admission for area residents with the latest partnership with Kennebunk Savings.

In this partnership, the museum will provide free admission on the first Saturday of July and August to residents of SAU 16, which includes Brentwood, East Kingston, Exeter, Kensington, Newfields, and Stratham.

On these dates, July 6 and August 3, respectively, residents of any age from the aforementioned towns will gain entry to the museum’s Ladd-Gilman House and Folsom Tavern at no charge.

Bradford Paige, President and CEO of Kennebunk Savings, said they support this initiative because the museum is “keeping history alive by engaging the youth in our community.”

“We see the importance in ensuring the museum is accessible to everyone and are very pleased to sponsor ‘Free Admission First Saturdays’ for residents as part of our Community Promise Program,” he said. 

Paige also expressed enthusiasm in the museum’s 2019 theme of civic engagement.

 “The museum’s theme of civic engagement is sure to inspire young minds to dream big and know they can affect positive change in the world,” he added.

Museum Executive Director Emma Bray said she is grateful at the opportunity to work with Kennebunk Savings for the first time. Recently, Bray met with Kelly Hutchinson, Vice President/Branch Manager of Kennebunk Savings in Stratham, to discuss the museum’s collection and the partnership.

“In visiting with Kelly, it became clear we have a shared vision for Exeter,” she said. “This partnership results from this shared vision.” 

On Saturday, July 6 and Saturday, August 3, free admission will be provided to residents of Brentwood, East Kingston, Exeter, Kensington, Newfields, and Stratham. 

About the American Independence Museum
The American Independence Museum is a history museum in Exeter, NH that features a collection of 3,000 historic artifacts that shed light on the American Revolution. Many of our programs touch on civics and the fight for independence, while we incorporate  inclusivity and diversity into the experiences we create on-site and in digital formats. We feature a variety of things to do for people of all ages, including festivals, an historic tavern, guided tours and our annual American Independence Festival. 

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Local festival shows history ‘at work’

For many, history is a subject reserved for academic debates and classrooms, which could not be farther from what takes place at the American Independence Festival in Exeter every July.

Entering its 29th year, the American Independence Festival not only features classic festival elements — live music,  local food, games for kids, art and craft marketplace — but a living history experience for all ages.

“We have traditional artisans outside Folsom Tavern, built in 1775, and dozens of colonial re-enactors on Swasey Parkway and throughout historic downtown Exeter,” said Emma Bray of the American Independence Museum, which hosts the annual event. “It’s what you would expect at a festival, but with history mixed into it.”

The traditional artisan village is made possible by a grant from New Hampshire State Council on the Arts.

“From basket weavers to blacksmiths, shoemakers and more, our traditional artisans village has always been a hit with families,” added Bray. “These artisans demonstrate how our colonial ancestors made – by hand – the things that they needed for life in the 1700s.”

This year, the festival takes place on Saturday, July 13 in Exeter, NH from 10 am to 4 pm. 

For the local business community, the yearly event is important on several fronts.

“It brings people into downtown Exeter, which features a downtown as vibrant and beautiful as you will find anywhere,” noted Florence Ruffner of Ruffner Real Estate, a longtime sponsor of the event.

Bob Mitchell, who sponsors the event through his two businesses, Historic Motor Sports and Mitchel & Monti, said he “loves the festival.”

“America was built by people who worked with their hands in ways that are being lost today,” he said. “If we can inspire a young person to just consider for a moment the ingenuity and creativity that went into how America was built, we just might have a future artisan.”

Other festival elements include a parade beer garden, Revolutionary War battle re-enactment,  and viewing of an original printed copy of the Declaration of Independence.

“It’s such a wonderful community event unique to Exeter, which has a history that rivals any town or city in New England,” said Bray. “The festival is history with an emphasis on fun, community, family…If you haven’t been to Exeter, this is one day you absolutely should visit.”

In total, more than 4,000 visitors are expected to attend the festival on Saturday, July 13 with proceeds to benefit educational programs and collections care at the museum, which features more than 3,000 items. Its collection includes one of only 26 surviving copies of the Dunlap Broadside of the Declaration of Independence and two rare drafts of the U.S. Constitution, both of which will be displayed at the festival.

Festival tickets are $10 for adults; $5 for ages 6 to 18; and free for children under 6, active and retired military, veterans, and Museum members. 

About the American Independence Museum
The American Independence Museum is a history museum in Exeter, NH that features a collection of 3,000 historic artifacts that shed light on the American Revolution. Many of our programs touch on civics and the fight for independence, while we incorporate  inclusivity and diversity into the experiences we create on-site and in digital formats. We feature a variety of things to do for people of all ages, including festivals, an historic tavern, guided tours and our annual American Independence Festival. 

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American Independence Museum to provide free admission to SAU 16 residents

On the first Tuesday of July and August this summer, the American Independence Museum will provide free admission to residents of SAU 16, which includes Exeter, Brentwood, East Kingston, Exeter, Kensington, Newfields, and Stratham.

Free admission for residents of these towns is made possible by The Provident Bank.

“Offering free admission to SAU 16 residents provides a valuable educational opportunity to residents who may otherwise not be able to enjoy the Ladd-Gilman House,” said Leland Ward, AVP, Regional Relationship Officer – New Hampshire. “The Provident Bank is proud to participate in such a worthwhile cause.”

In 2019, exhibits within the Ladd-Gilman House include both digital and physical interactives, which museum Executive Director Emma Bray said will enhance the learning experience for all ages.

“We want visitors to experience our collection in new ways,” she said. “This partnership with The Provident Bank is exciting because it creates an opportunity for local residents to visit us at no charge on two days this summer.”

On Tuesday, July 2 and Tuesday, August 6, free admission will be provided to residents of Exeter, Brentwood, East Kingston, Exeter, Kensington, Newfields, and Stratham.

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Local historic agencies to offer free admission on NH Appreciation Day on June 15

On Saturday, June 15 from 10 am to 4 pm, the American Independence Museum, Historic New England’s Gilman Garrison House, and Exeter Historical Society will be open for free.

At the American Independence Museum, visitors can take self-guided and docent-led tours on a first come, first served basis with colonial games outside, weather permitting. Gilman Garrison House will offer guided tours on the hour, while Exeter Historical Society will host an open house and offer guided walking tours of historic downtown Exeter at 11 am and 1 pm. 

“This is the first time in recent memory that the three sites have collaborated for a town-wide event and celebration of Exeter’s unique history,” said Emma Bray, executive director of the American Independence Museum. “We are very excited to offer this opportunity to NH residents.”

Home to a world-class collection of 3,000 historic artifacts, the American Independence Museum welcomes more than 5,000 visitors annually and offers educational school programs and events that make history fun and relevant.

Built in 1709 by the Gilman family, the Gilman Garrison House is an unusual structure, featuring walls constructed of massive sawn logs, a pulley above the main entrance, and view ports that reveal its architectural evolution.

The Exeter Historical Society offers regular programs of local historical interest and is a repository for documents, maps, photos, artifacts and other ephemera pertaining to Exeter, New Hampshire.

About the American Independence Museum
The American Independence Museum is a history museum in Exeter, NH that features a collection of 3,000 historic artifacts that shed light on the American Revolution. Many of our programs touch on civics and the fight for independence, while we incorporate  inclusivity and diversity into the experiences we create on-site and in digital formats. We feature a variety of things to do for people of all ages, including festivals, an historic tavern, guided tours and our annual American Independence Festival. 

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“Researching Veteran Ancestors” to take place on June 8

While many can claim their ancestors served our nation, much less is likely known about their service, which is the subject of the next workshop in the American Independence Museum’s Genealogy Workshop Series.

Presented in partnership with the New England Historic Genealogical Society (NEHGS), the workshop takes place on Saturday, June 8 from 1 to 4 pm in the museum’s Folsom Tavern.

At the workshop, entitled “Researching Veteran Ancestors: American Civil War, World War I, and World War II,” David Allen Lambert, chief NEHGS genealogist, will provide practical tools, tips, and strategies to research veteran ancestors.

“The New England Historic Genealogical Society is the foremost authority in this kind of research,” said museum Executive Director Emma Bray. “This is your chance to learn from and speak with a leading expert and researcher.”

Upcoming workshops include “Researching Early New England Ancestry” (9/21) and “Writing Your Family History: Taking the First Steps” (11/16). 

Individual workshop fees are $20 for museum and NEHGS members and $30 for ‘not-yet’ members. Reservations are required.

The museum’s Genealogy Workshop Series is sponsored by the William W. Treat Foundation.

About the American Independence Museum
The American Independence Museum is a history museum in Exeter, NH that features a collection of 3,000 historic artifacts that shed light on the American Revolution. Many of our programs touch on civics and the fight for independence, while we incorporate  inclusivity and diversity into the experiences we create on-site and in digital formats. We feature a variety of things to do for people of all ages, including festivals, an historic tavern, guided tours and our annual American Independence Festival. 

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Museum to offer inside look at 18th century buildings

Building on the success of last year’s series, the American Independence Museum will host three Architecture Tours in 2019, scheduled for May 29, June 13, and September 24.

A ‘behind the scenes’ look at the ca. 1721 Ladd-Gilman House and ca. 1775 Folsom Tavern, the Architecture Tour provides insight into the evolution of both buildings, respective decorative styles and architectural features.

“There is so much history behind these structures that we thought it would be fun to take people into areas of the buildings you won’t find on a standard tour,” said museum Executive Director Emma Bray.

Among many interesting historical footnotes, the Ladd-Gilman House was home to NH’s fifth Governor, John Taylor Gilman, who served in such capacity for a total of 14 years from 1794 to 1816. In 1985, a Dunlap Broadside, the first official printing of the Declaration of Independence, was re-discovered in its attic.

Originally built in the center of downtown Exeter where Me & Ollie’s exists today, Folsom Tavern is now “down the hill” from the Ladd-Gilman House and boasts a unique history of its own. In addition to where the New Hampshire Chapter of the Society of the Cincinnati was founded in 1783, Folsom Tavern welcomed George Washington in 1789 where he “partook in a collation” served by the Folsom family.

The Architecture Tour will take place from 10:30 am to 12 pm on Wednesday, May 29, Thursday, June 13, and Tuesday September 24.

Due to the historic nature of both buildings, they are not handicap accessible. Tickets are $10 for non-members and $5 for members.

Home to a world-class collection of 3,000 historic artifacts, the museum welcomes more than 5,000 visitors annually and distinguishes itself with educational school programs and events that make history fun and relevant.

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Fostering ‘community’ within Exeter Hospital’s Revolutionary Story Time!

With its Traveling Trunk program criss-crossing the nation in its mission to educate youth, the American Independence Museum has made “impressive progress” locally with Revolutionary Story Time!, presented by Exeter Hospital.

Designed for kids, ages 3 to 5, and their families, the series is free and is helping to create what museum Executive Director Emma Bray described as “a third community space.”

“We have a great space for kids and families, and this series helps to open up our property to others who might not know much about us,” she said. “Revolutionary Story Time! is free and accessible to all in our local communities.”

The next Revolutionary Story Time! takes place on Thursday, June 6 from 2 to 4 pm during which time children are entertained by books, live music and stories.

After the initial 30 minute story time, families are invited to “stay and play” for parent-supervised playtime, which includes imaginary play, colonial games and period dress-up.

“It is so much fun to see kids and their families here for this program,” added Bray. “I’m thrilled we can partner with Exeter Hospital to provide this space at no charge to families.”

Due to the historical nature of the Tavern, strollers are not encouraged, as the building is not handicapped accessible. Reservations are accepted but not required.

About the American Independence Museum
The American Independence Museum is a history museum in Exeter, NH that features a collection of 3,000 historic artifacts that shed light on the American Revolution. Many of our programs touch on civics and the fight for independence, while we incorporate  inclusivity and diversity into the experiences we create on-site and in digital formats. We feature a variety of things to do for people of all ages, including festivals, an historic tavern, guided tours and our annual American Independence Festival. 

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Lecture Series kicks off on Wednesday, May 15

Sponsored by People’s United Bank, the 2019 Lecture Series kicks off on Wednesday, May 15 at 6:30 pm at the American Independence Museum’s Folsom Tavern.

Entitled “Moved and Seconded: Town Meeting in New Hampshire, the Present, the Past, and the Future,” this first lecture will be led by Rebecca Rule, who has hosted “The New Hampshire Authors Series” on NHPTV.

“At the lecture, people will hear many interesting stories of the rituals, traditions, and history of town meeting,” said Emma Bray, museum executive director. “Town meetings are unique to New England, so this is a neat chance to hear about the perennial characters, literature, humor, and wisdom of this uniquely New England institution.”

Open for the 2019 season, the American Independence Museum features a collection that is particular interest to active military and veterans, both groups recently granted free admission this year courtesy of Chinburg Properties.

“Our collection helps tell the story of how our nation was founded and the sacrifices of our nation’s first military,” said museum Executive Director Emma Bray. “Anyone who has ever served will find our collection and the stories behind many of our objects especially interesting.”

In addition to active military and veterans, the gift from Chinburg Properties enables their families to take tours and access programs and events at no charge in 2019.

“We have worked very hard this offseason to modernize aspects of our exhibits, which will better engage people of all ages and learning styles,” said Bray. “Chinburg Properties is helping us reach people who may not otherwise know about us or be able to visit.”

For Jennifer Chinburg of Chinburg Properties, the investment in the museum directly benefits the surrounding communities.

“From their collection to education programs and family events, we believe in what the museum is doing in our communities,” she said. “We are honored to be able to support their work in the community as well as the sacrifices made by active military, veterans and their families.”

About the American Independence Museum
The American Independence Museum is a history museum in Exeter, NH that features a collection of 3,000 historic artifacts that shed light on the American Revolution. Many of our programs touch on civics and the fight for independence, while we incorporate  inclusivity and diversity into the experiences we create on-site and in digital formats. We feature a variety of things to do for people of all ages, including festivals, an historic tavern, guided tours and our annual American Independence Festival. 

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American Independence Museum to offer Homeschool Day

On Friday, May 10, the American Independence Museum in Exeter will host its popular Homeschool Day: Colonial Living Days for homeschool students.

In the 90-minute program, students of all ages will learn from 18th century re-enactors who will each provide glimpses into various facets of everyday colonial life.

Some examples of activities may include: learning about the wardrobe of a colonial child; trying out some colonial games; discussing the day in the life of a militia man or writing with a quill pen.

“This program has seen much success over the past few years and we’re excited to continue providing home school families with enrichment opportunities at our museum,” said Education Manager Abigail Pietrantonio. 

Homeschool Day: Colonial Living Days will take place on Friday, May 10 from 12:00 pm to 1:30 pm at the museum’s Folsom Tavern in downtown Exeter. The cost is $5 for adults, $8 for students and free for children 2 and under. Pre-registration is required and space is limited.


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Thousands expected at American Independence Festival

Featuring live music, colonial-inspired beer, food trucks, games for kids, traditional artisans, art and craft fair, and colonial battle re-enactments, the 29th Annual American Independence Festival on Saturday, July 13 will delight people of all ages.

“This a fun and unique family festival that showcases not only the wonderful community of Exeter and the greater Seacoast, but talent from across the region,” said museum Executive Director Emma Bray. “Our art and craft fair alone brings in top vendors from New Hampshire Made and throughout region.”

For those interested in American colonial history, the festival features a working Artisans’ Village, sponsored by the New Hampshire State Council on the Arts.

“It’s a chance to interact with artisans who create items with the same tools and techniques as the colonial craftspeople who would have lived and worked in the area,” said the museum’s Victoria Su, who organizes the event. 

Featuring colonial-inspired beer and beer garden outside the museum’s Folsom Tavern (c.1775) in which George Washington once enjoyed a libation, the festival also includes an original copy of a Dunlap Broadside printing of the Declaration of Independence. One of just 26 known to still exist, the Declaration of Independence will be available for viewing on just this one day.

“It is always very special and exciting to have the Declaration on view during the Festival. ,” said Bray, who noted visitors may also see two original working drafts of the US Constitution. “Being up close with these important founding documents is a wonderful way for guests to connect to the history of  New Hampshire’s and nation’s Revolutionary history.” For Florence Ruffner of Ruffner Real Estate, which is sponsoring the parade with George Washington that marches through the center of historic downtown Exeter, the festival is unlike any event in the region.

“It is such a wonderful festival and perfect for families,” she said. “I think Exeter is a beautiful, dynamic town, and this event really showcases it for locals and tourists.”

In total, more than 4,000 visitors are expected to descend upon downtown Exeter, which includes numerous shops and restaurants that remain open during the festival. Just one hour north of Boston and one hour southwest of Portland, Maine, Exeter is accessible from both locations by train.

Tickets for the festival, which takes place on Saturday, July 13, are $10 for adults; $5 for ages 6 to 18; and free for children under 6, active and retired military, veterans, and Museum members.

About the American Independence Museum
The American Independence Museum is a history museum in Exeter, NH that features a collection of 3,000 historic artifacts that shed light on the American Revolution. Many of our programs touch on civics and the fight for independence, while we incorporate  inclusivity and diversity into the experiences we create on-site and in digital formats. We feature a variety of things to do for people of all ages, including festivals, an historic tavern, guided tours and our annual American Independence Festival. 

The museum is a member of the 17-member NH Heritage Museum Trail, which connects the public with culturally rich heritage institutions in New Hampshire.  For more information about the NH Heritage Museum Trail, visit nhmuseumtrail.org.

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